Retinol is the common name for retinoid, which is well known for plumping skin and fading wrinkles. Ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, glycolic acid, and retinoids are the best ingredients for treating acne and acne scars.
Retinol can tighten the skin texture and slow down the collagen breakdown of our skin by increasing collagen and the elasticity of our skin. This helps to gain plumper and healthy-looking skin.
Retinol can also brighten our skin tone, reduce hyperpigmentation, and clear our skin pores. This is a great ingredient for many skin conditions. But dry or sensitive skin may face some difficulty in tolerating highly potent retinoids.
Prevents skin blemishes
If our pores are clogged, there is a chance of breakouts. Retinoids unclog the pore and reduce the buildup of acne. It can reduce excess sebum production in our skin and exfoliate our skin to remove dead cells. Thus acne and breakouts reduce to a great extent.
Clears acne scar
Retinols can treat acne pigmentation and fine lines of our skin. Acne scars and wrinkles are divots of our skin, the retinoid plumps the area with collagen, and in the same way, it plumps fine lines.
How to use retinol for sensitive skin
Sensitive skin feels much more uncomfortable when retinoid is applied without proper steps. As retinoid is a drying agent, the skin gets rough and dies. Oily skin is much more comfortable and works well with retinoids.
A sandwich method is a good option for applying retinoids. You need to apply moisturiser first, then apply a bit of retinol, not excess, and finally, another layer of moisturiser.
Introduce your face to the retinoid slowly. Use only twice a week initially and increase it to thrice a week. If you feel comfortable, you can apply four to five times a week.
Oily or natural skin conditions can use retinoids every night if they are comfortable with it.
Some general forms of retinoid
The six most commonly used retinoids are Tretinoin, Adapalene, Tazarotene, Retinaldehyde, Retinyl palmitate, and retinol. We use them topically on our skin, available in different potencies according to skin condition. Some serums are known for using them in a skincare regimen.
The bottom line is to consult a dermatologist before using a new active ingredient on your skin.
